NBC to demarcate Ebonyi, Enugu boundaries to prevent further communal clashes
Jacob Ogodo, Abakaliki
The National Boundary Commission (NBC), has resolved to demarcate the boundaries between Ebonyi and Enugu states to prevent further clashes by the neighbouring States.
The Director General, NBC, Surveyor Adamu Adaji made this known during sensitization campaign held to enlighten Ebonyi and Enugu states on the demarcation of boundaries between the states.
Recall that there have been boundary disputes in Ishielu/ Isi-uzo, Ishielu/Nkanu-East, Onicha/Nkanu East, Ohaozara/Aninri, Ohaozara/Nkanu East, Ivo/Aniniri, Ivo/Awgu of the two states which has led to loss of lives and destruction of properties.
The Director General, Surveyor Adaji, appreciated both states for towing the path of peace and charged them not to allow “bad blood” exist in their midst as NBC will remain committed to peaceful resolution of the boundary dispute.
“I want to appreciate both states for towing the path of peace. Bad blood should not be allowed to continue between the two states. 146 main number pillars will be introduced. I want to appeal for special support from the affected Communities as they are well represented here.
“The traditional Rulers must play vital roles towards sustaining the already existing peace. Healthy sports competition should be introduced. Women should positively influence the behaviour of their husbands. We must embrace peace and unity in the disputed areas. Violence is an ill-wind that does benefit anybody.”
As part of the peace initiative, the emplacement of the main pillar along the 94 kilometers consensus area will commence on 22nd March 2021 and is expected to last for a period of 90 days across the boundary locations of Ebonyi and Enugu States.
Speaking during the occasion of the Joint Sensitization/Enlightenment Campaign of Border Communities at the Ebonyi/Enugu interstate boundary which held at Amadeo Event Centre, Enugu, the Deputy Governor of Ebonyi State, Barr Eric Kelechi Igwe said “ the joint Sensitization/Enlightenment is expected to smoothen any rough edges and pave the way for a peaceful emplacement of the pillars and also hasten the amicable resolution of the 36km dispute and skipped areas.”
“I am further optimistic that the Sensitization/Enlightenment Campaign is a road map to achieving unity and better understanding among our border communities. Consequently, may I encourage us to accord today’s meeting the seriousness and honesty required to enable us achieve the purpose for which it was initiated.
“May I reiterate that Ebonyi state will do all things that are legal and lawful to ensure that the National Boundary Commission, Abuja and the office of the Surveyor General of the Federation amicably demarcate the Ebonyi/Enugu interstate boundary.”
On her part, the Deputy Governor of Enugu State, Mrs. Cecelia Ezeilo who commended NBC for the role it placed towards resolving the boundary dispute affecting Communities in Ebonyi and Enugu States, called on the communities to ensure that the feats achieved were maintained.
“The Government of Enugu State welcomes you to this high profile joint sensitization/Enlightenment meeting holding today. We applaud the NBC for the role they played in resolving boundary dispute between Enugu and Ebonyi which is coming to an end amicably. Let’s ensure that this great feat is achieved without any hiccups.”
